How Long Do Long Term Disability Benefits Last?

If you are living with a disability or disabling condition are you're unable to continue working, you may be eligible for long term disability benefits (LTD) through your employee insurance benefits. These benefits can provide financial security during a difficult time, but many Canadians are unsure of how long they will last or what the eligibility requirements are.

This blog post will answer all your questions about long term disability claims in Canada, including how long they last, who is eligible for them, and what you need to do to qualify. We’ll also discuss some of the common challenges faced by those receiving disability payments so that you can better prepare yourself for any potential issues that may arise. With this information at hand, you'll be able to make informed decisions regarding your future health finances with confidence.

What are employee disability claims and what is their purpose?

Employee disability claims serve to provide financial support to those who are unable to work due to disability or illness. Employees may be eligible for long term disability claims if their doctor or any corresponding specialists confirm that they are unable to perform the necessary tasks of their job. Going through the disability claims process, while not easy, can provide some financial security and ensure that individuals and their families can continue to afford essential expenses like rent, utilities, and healthcare costs when their employment is no longer possible.

Unfortunately, disability claim applications are routinely denied, leaving many without recourse in spite of medical evidence and their doctor's opinion that employment is indeed impossible. For this reason it is critical for employees seeking disability coverage to be aware of both their eligibility criteria and options for what to do next if their initial application for a long term disability claim is denied by their disability insurer.

How long do long term disability claims last and who is eligible for them?

The length of time an individual can receive LTD benefits varies depending on the particular insurance company and disability policy that is in place. Long term disability benefits typically last until you reach the age of 65 or until you are able to return to work. People generally qualify for disability claims if they have a chronic illness or physical or mental disability that prevents them from working or performing certain activities necessary for their regular job duties. In order to qualify for a disability claim, a doctor or specialist must provide medical evidence to confirm that you are unable to continue working due to your medical condition.

Over the last 35 years of specializing in disability law, our disability lawyers also recognize that many people applying for disability claims are struggling with disabling symptoms but have not yet received a medical diagnosis. Those struggling with disabling symptoms who have not yet been diagnosed should still qualify for employee disability benefits if they can provide enough detailed information regarding their symptoms and how those symptoms are impacting their ability to work.

Can disability benefits be revoked by the insurance company after they're approved?

Unfortunately, disability claims can be taken away from those who are approved without much warning. This occurs often, especially if the insurance company has doubts about the legitimacy of the disability claim or if they feel that an individual’s condition is no longer severe enough to warrant coverage. In some cases, insurance companies may even conduct surveillance on those on claim in order to monitor their activities and make sure they aren't engaging in activities that would suggest they are not as sick as initially indicated. Additionally, insurance companies often contact doctors or request additional medical evidence with further information regarding a claimants condition. All these potential roadblocks can be a source of immense frustration for people already dealing with physical and/or mental illnesses.

Many long term disability policies will eventually reach a point called the Change of Definition, at which insurance companies no longer look to see if you can return to your regular job. Instead they focus on whether a claimant can perform any other occupation for pay - even one that pays minimum wage. When this happens it may become difficult to convince an insurance company that benefits should continue to be paid unless there is striking medical evidence of major changes in condition and circumstances.

How can you ensure that you continue to receive your long term disability claim payments if you're approved?

If you've been approved for disability benefits payments, it is important to understand that the disability claim payments are not guaranteed forever. To ensure that your disability payments keep coming, you should always remain compliant with the instructions of your disability insurance company. This includes submitting any necessary medical documents or participating in mandatory medical examinations such as Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs). Our disability lawyers also recommend that you take and keep detailed notes about your health that you can refer to if you are questioned by the insurance company.

In this video, Lawyer Samantha Share discusses the importance of keeping medical records.

If at any point your disability claim is revoked, the best thing to do is to seek professional advice from an experienced disability lawyer. The disability lawyers at Share Lawyers have seen it all - our law firm offers a free consultation to explore all of your options at any point in the disability claim process.

When should you contact a disability lawyer for support against the insurance company?

If you or a loved one is dealing with employee disability benefits, it is in your best interests to contact a long term disability lawyer. Consulting an experienced disability law firm will ensure that your rights are upheld at any stage of the process, can help give you access to resources you need, and can challenge the insurance company's decision regarding your disability case if you've been wrongly denied.

Whether you are considering applying for a disability claim, have already applied but haven't yet received an answer, been wrongly denied your disability benefits, or been taken off claim - the Share Lawyers disability lawyers are here to help. There are no fees unless you win your case and it's always free to talk to us. A free consultation with our team will give you a comprehensive understanding of the particular circumstances of your disability benefits case and all available options available to you. The earlier you take advantage of this assistance, the better chance at succeeding with your claim. It's never too soon to get in touch.

Long term disability benefits can provide much-needed financial security for individuals who are living with a disability or disabling condition. To make sure you qualify and receive your payments without interruption, it's important to understand the eligibility requirements, length of coverage, and any common challenges that may arise while receiving these benefits. With this knowledge at hand, people will be able to confidently pursue their LTD options so they can focus on recovering without worrying about how they’ll pay bills during this difficult time. If you have any questions regarding long term disability insurance, don't hesitate to reach out - we're here to fight back on your behalf and get you the compensation you are owed.

Denied your disability claim?

Contact a disability lawyer at Share Lawyers today and put our experience to work for you. Our 35+ years of experience can help you win your case against Canada Life, Desjardins, Manulife, RBC Insurance, Sun Life, and other insurance companies. We offer a free consultation and there are no fees unless you win your case. Join us on Facebook and become a Top Fan for a chance to win each month.